For two years, Hughes was not only the most dominant defensive player in the MWC, but one of the most feared pass-rushers in the entire country.

Hughes broke out in his junior year, leading the nation with 15 sacks. He also recorded 18.5 tackles for loss and forced six fumbles en route to being named MWC Defensive Player of the Year. He added another 11.5 sacks his senior year as well as unanimous first-team All-American honors.

Hughes' 28 career sacks are tied for most in MWC history. The Colts drafted him 31st overall in 2010.